Saturday, October 5, 2013

Boswellia or the extract of salai guggal is a standardized powder extract of the gum of the Boswellia tree which contains a mixture of Boswellic acids. Boswellic acids are very effective in the problem related to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, soft tissue rheumatism and also in the low back pain as it is an anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory agent.

In comparison to the other standard drug of choice for rheumatic disorders the extract of boswellia is more beneficial as it is less toxic and also more potent. The different benefits of boswellia includes increased mobility, reduction in joint swelling, steroid sparing action, less morning stiffness and improved grip strength. It is very helpful in improving the general quality of life for both the problem of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The Latin name of Boswellia Serrata is Shallaki Guggal. Shalaki is an anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic extract in Ayurveda. It is very helpful in treating the problem of arthritis as the therapeutic action of shallaki extract includes decrease of joint restoration, swellings and also improvement in the supply of blood to the joints which is inflamed, increased the mobility, increase relief in pain and amelioration of morning stiffness.

This ayurvedic extract is also used to improve lower the elevated serum transaminase levels, alleviate the general weakness, appetite and debility. Shallaki reduces the erythrocyte sedimentation rates and synovial fluid leucocyte count. Shallaki is very effective in rheumatoid arthritis as it is very effective in shrinking inflamed tissues which is mediated through a vascular phenomenon. Shallalki is very helpful in improving blood supply to the joints and also restores the integrity of blood vessels.

Usually the health practitioner recommends 1-2 capsules twice a day after the meal. Some of the important health benefits of this herb are -

1. The main cause behind each pain is vata, so shallaki is very helpful in relieving pain.

2. It is very effective in curbing any type of pain and swelling as it works as anti-inflammatory substance due to the presence of boswellic acid.

3. It is very popular and effective for arthritic problems like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, skeletal muscle pain and also joint pains.

4. Shallaki is also popular in the treatment for cancer as it contains anti cancerous properties.

5. It is very effective in healing wound. It is commonly used as wound healer herb.

Ankle pain, while not as frequent as pain in the knee, is a common problem. The difficulty lies in making a diagnosis because chronic "ankle pain" covers a wide variety of disorders, each of which requires a customized approach.

A chronic ankle problem should be differentiated from an acute injury. An acute ankle injury is not hard to diagnose. For example, ankle sprains are usually an inversion injury (the foot turns in) and there is damage to the outside (lateral ligaments) of the ankle. While usually mild, some injuries can be more severe with significant injury occurring in the anterior talofibular ligament. A significant percentage of those patients who have this injury go on to develop osteoarthritis of the ankle. It is important that if there is evidence of significant damage to the anterior talofibular ligament, that an MRI scan be obtained.

Patients with chronic ankle pain where there is crunching when the ankle is moved almost always have osteoarthritis of the ankle and this is usually a result of recurrent injury of the inversion type. While the standard programs of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and glucocorticoid injections can provide temporary relief, patients may need more aggressive treatment using platelet-rich plasma and/or mesenchymal stem cells.

Pain developing on the outside of the ankle beneath the lateral malleolus (the bump on the outside of the ankle) usually is due to tendonitis involving the peroneal tendon. An MRI will confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consists of ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma. Another condition that causes pain on the outside of the ankle joint is sinus tarsi syndrome. This is an inflammatory condition affecting the joint between the talus (upper ankle bone) and the calcaneus (heel bone). Treatment here involves ultrasound guided glucocorticoid injection and splinting.

Pain in the back of the ankle, particularly if it can be localized to the Achilles tendon is due to Achilles tendinopathy. This is a degenerative condition involving the Achilles tendon and is frequently seen in aging athletes. The danger here is this condition can lead to Achilles rupture. MRI can confirm the diagnostic impression. If there is no tear, ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma can be curative.

Pain the back of the ankle joint usually signifies an arthritic component involving a bone called the os trigonum.

Pain along the inside of the ankle joint can be due to a few things. The first is a problem with the deltoid ligament. Another potential situation is caused by an extra bone- called an accessory navicular. Pain with toeing off at the front/middle part of the ankle joint is caused by pinching between the talus and the tibia (lower leg bone). All of these situations are complicated in regards to treatment.

Pain occurring below and in back of the medial malleolus (bump along the inside of the ankle) is usually due to tendonitis involving the posterior tibial tendon. This can be treated with ultrasound guided needle tenotomy with platelet-rich plasma along with short term splinting.

Better known in medical terms as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease it is another popular form of Arthritis that originates due to breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage within the bones. Over 20 million people around the world, generally occurs to men after the age of 45 and above and in the case of women 55 and above. Patients suffering from Osteoarthritis go through excruciating pain that inculcates the affected part and at times the pain tends to spread towards the surrounding region. Hands, feet, spine, and large weight-bearing joints are the ones that are commonly affected.

Medically speaking, with age the water content within the cartilage grows along with the decrease in the protein make up of the cartilage. Ultimately the cartilage tends to deteriorate by flaking and they form tiny crevasses. In extreme cases it has been found that, there is total loss in the entire cartilage that cushions the bone joints resulting in immense pain and swelling. Researchers and doctors alike have found Osteoarthritis to be hereditary and secondly one may find Osteoarthritis with people suffering from obesity, repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures, gout, abnormal joints at birth (congenital abnormalities), diabetes, and other hormone disorders.

There are two ways of treating Osteoarthritis, one is the surgical and another is the non surgical way. A lot of surgical methods have been invented by doctors after years of research to perish Osteoarthritis through surgeries. Surgical treatments like Osteotomy, Joint replacements, Chondroplasty, Arthroscopy etc are done by a lot of patients now a day to treat Osteoarthritis. Osteotomy is a more conserved form of surgery. With Osteotomy the entire joint loading mechanism can be altered. Thus it eliminates the pain to a large extent and is very effective with patients having knee Osteoarthritis. Joint replacement surgery is for those in their advanced stage of Osteoarthritis. Chondroplasty is also quite popular but lack in efficacy in certain ways. Arthroscopy removes fragments of loose cartilages thus preventing pain.

Nonsurgical method of treating Osteoarthritis is the Rotational Field Quantum Magnetic Resonance Technology, shortly known as RFQMR. This procedure uses a device that is totally computer controlled. It is known as Cytotron. This device focuses a RFQMR beam on the joint that is affected. These beams affect the dynamicity of the cells in those areas and cause them to generate and activate. This stimulates growth of cartilage. This treatment enhances mobility and flexibility. This treatment is practiced in clinic and has been successful in cases over 500. You can try out whichever way you are comfortable in provided it gives you expected result.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? Each person seems to experience RA differently. Sometimes the onset is sudden, other times it can be very gradual. Almost all RA cases involve flare-ups and remissions - alternating stages of chronic pain followed by no symptoms at all. Over time, however, flare-ups become more severe and remissions become few and far between.

One of the main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain, particularly in the smaller joints of the hands, wrists, and feet. This joint pain is usually symmetrical, meaning it affects both sides of the body (both hands instead of just one, for instance). The painful areas are often red, swollen, and tender to the touch. One of the early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is fever, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms accompanied by aches and pains all over.

Additionally, almost all RA sufferers will experience morning stiffness that lasts an hour or more each day. Over time, even resting and remaining motionless for just a few minutes will cause stiffness. Range of motion of the affected joints will also be reduced. Tiny bumps called nodules may also occur around the joints - these are caused by swollen blood vessels.

Over time, symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis become increasingly debilitating. Hand and foot deformities are common, as well as eye problems such as itching and burning. Numbness of the skin, chronic fever, swollen glands, and paleness frequently occur. Anemia is another common symptom, caused by the failure of bone marrow to produce enough red blood cells.

Occasionally, damage to the lungs and spinal chord may occur, as well as rheumatoid vasculitis, which is inflammation of the blood vessels. Rheumatoid vasculitis can lead to skin ulcers, infections, and tingling/numbness. In rare cases, the brain and heart can be affected, leading to stroke or heart attack.

According to conventional medical science rheumatoid arthritis is a condition of chronic inflammation of the joints such as hands, ankles, knees and hips. The condition results in acute pain, stiffness of joints and severe restrictions on a person's mobility. It can also affect one's eyes, heart, lungs, blood cells and even skin and bring about numerous medical complications. Given the fact there are no known cures for it, the bulk of the medication focuses on alleviating the pain or minimizing the rate of progression of the disease. The unavailability of a cure has also caused its sufferers to look at a multitude of alternate treatments such home remedies, homeopathic treatments and Ayurveda practices. Although none of these methods have been proven to cure it in a scientific sense, those that follow these alternate treatments and home remedies also insist on varying levels of relief provided by them.

Ayurveda is defined as a system that draws on the inherent qualities of nature to maintain a healthy equilibrium. Practiced in the Indian subcontinent, Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word made up of two other words, 'ayu' and 'veda'. While 'ayu' means life, 'veda' translates to mean 'related to science or knowledge'. These treatments usually encapsulate natural remedies based on various herbs, massage techniques and yoga practices. The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis through Ayurveda spans centuries and is both interesting and complex.

According to Ayurveda, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a poor balance within the body as a result of poor digestion as well as a weakened colon. Poor digestion is believed to cause toxins to amass in the body and problems relating to the colon result in these toxins reaching the joints. The suggested remedy is to activate the digestive system and ensure it functions as it is meant to. A complex mix of treatments is used to rectify this imbalance.

Key to the treatment of the condition is the use of natural herbs which are found in the Indian subcontinent. These herbs can be spices used in cooking or rare plant matter that are transformed into various pills, pastes and concoctions. Some of the ingredients herein include Gugulu, fenugreek, sarsaparilla and cinnamon bark. A person's diet is also closely monitored when considering Ayurveda treatments for rheumatoid arthritis. As such vegetable and fruit juices along with soups come highly recommended. Food that is easily digestible, spices such as cumin, coriander and ginger together with various salads made from herbs available in the region are all recommended. Extremely spicy food, vegetables and food items that cause gas, certain types of sweets as well as tea, coffee and nicotine are all frowned upon in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in Ayurveda.

Heat therapy is also commonly used in Ayurvedic treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. This, like in the western method, revolves around applying heat on the affected areas and maybe done with a moist cloth dipped in hot water. Hot oil massages, use of essential oils and various yoga exercises are also used as treatment options.

Here at Bill and Sheila's Cookbook, we both suffer from osteoarthritis. I have severe problems with my knees. Sheila suffers badly from arthritis in the fingers, wrist and shoulder joints. Medication helps, but there are always unpleasant side effects. What we both needed was a diet, which would help reduce the inflammation in our joints and consequently, reduce the pain associated with it.

First however, we just need to recap what arthritis is. It comes in many forms. The commonest being osteoarthritis. A more severe condition is rheumatoid arthritis which actually destroys ligaments and joints. Gout is another form of arthritis which is common. There are dozens of related conditions which are classified as 'arthritis'.

Arthritis is simply a condition in which inflammation in and around the joints produces acute pain. In my particular case, the cartilage that covers and cushions my knee joints are worn out. This causes the bones to rub together and cause acute pain and swelling. When I stand up after sitting for some time working at the computer, a distinct series of cracks can be heard - and felt. I am sure many readers of this article will have experienced this problem. I love gardening, but now find myself limited to short periods of work followed by long periods of resting my joints.

We decided to write this article to pass on the information we obtained from our research. From the research notes, we listed all the foods, vitamins and minerals that helped to reduce the inflammation and helped the body to recover, or in some cases start to repair damaged joints and bones. We also listed all the foods that you should not eat, but that is the subject of a follow-up article.

Vitamins and Minerals that help to reduce inflammation

- Calcium and Vitamin D: calcium is needed to prevent bone loss and fractures linked to osteoporosis. Scientists recommend an intake of 1500mg of calcium every day for people between the ages of 55 and 70. Vitamin D helps the body to absorb the calcium. Studies have proved that you need 400iu's a day.

- Vitamin E: there are considerable benefits obtained from a combination of vitamin E and vitamin C. Studies suggest a slowdown in the effects of Alzheimer's.

- Vitamin C: people with damaged or painful joints have a particular need for extra vitamin C. It is needed for the production of collagen, found in bone, tendons and skin. The combination of vitamin C and vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant. Scientific studies have proven a link to reduced cardiovascular disease and certain cancers and is also thought to enhance the body's response to viral and bacterial infection. The body needs between 1500 and 2000mg of vitamin C daily.

There are many other nutrients that the body requires to help prevent or repair the damage caused by arthritis, but these cannot be covered in this short article. The list of foods that we should eat contain useful amounts of all these additional vitamins and minerals.

The foods that we need to eat. (100g portions)

Calcium

- Cheese: is an excellent source of calcium. Parmesan contains 1.275 mg, emmental 1.080mg and cheddar 752mg. - Sardines in oil provide 400mg and anchovies 273mg. - Yogurt: provides 140-150mg depending on the type. - Milk: gives you 120mg but can be more if you use calcium enriched milk. - Sunflower seeds provide a useful 110mg of calcium

All of these vitamins and minerals are essential for normal function of the human body, but for arthritis sufferer, foods containing the following are essential for the treatment of inflammation and pain relief:

- Vitamin A for the control of inflammation. - B Vitamins for a healthy nervous system - Vitamin C for the production of collegen required for health joints, tendons and tissues. - Vitamin E to help with the oxidation of essential fatty acids, reducing the symptoms of inflammation. - Vitamin D for the formation of bone - Copper acts an an anti-inflammatory agent - Zinc for a health immune system - Magnesium for the normal formation of tissues in joints and bone - Folic acid is needed to aid in the absorption of other nutrients - Omega-3 fatty acids for the control of inflammation, swelling and joint pain.

Using the information above, we have put together a collection of interesting recipes that use the vitamins and minerals that help to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation of the joints. We have selected food items that the whole family can eat, without realising that they are actually eating a carefully constructed meal designed for the purpose of relieving and controlling arthritis. You can of course, construct your own recipes using the information outline in this article - but why re-invent the wheel? We have done the work for you and you are quite welcome to the results of our research. You can get the recipes from our website, Bill & Sheila's Cookbook, under the Arthritis heading.

Friday, October 4, 2013

Rheumatoid osteo-arthritis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease characterized by persistent symmetric irritation of multiple peripheral joints. It's a single from the most typical inflammatory rheumatic diseases and is characterized by the improvement of the chronic inflammatory proliferation of the synovial linings of diarthrodial joints, which leads to aggressive cartilage destruction and progressive bony erosions.

Untreated, rheumatoid osteo-arthritis often leads to progressive joint destruction, disability, and premature death. The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in the United States is around 1% within the basic population; comparable prevalence rates are already observed worldwide.

The disorder happens around three times more often in ladies than in males and has its peak onset within the fifth to sixth decade of life. Like SLE, rheumatoid osteo-arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease by which abnormal activation of B cells, T cells, and innate immune effectors occurs. In contrast to SLE, the majority of inflammatory action in rheumatoid arthritis occurs in the joint synovium.

Even though the trigger of rheumatoid arthritis is unfamiliar, a complex set of genetic and environmental factors seems to contribute to illness susceptibility. Because the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis has been observed to become similar in numerous cultures and geographic regions across the globe, it's assumed that the environmental exposures that provoke rheumatoid arthritis must be widely distributed.

Early rheumatoid osteo-arthritis is closely mimicked by transient inflammatory osteo-arthritis provoked by a number of microbial pathogens. Therefore, even though a part for infection in the improvement of rheumatoid osteo-arthritis has lengthy been postulated, it is not yet satisfactorily proven.

Particular class II MHCalleles (HLA-DR4), sharing a consensus QKRAA motif in the peptide-binding groove, have been extremely associated to illness susceptibility and to greater severity of rheumatoid osteo-arthritis. Significantly from the pathologic damage that characterizes rheumatoid arthritis is centered close to the synovial linings of joints.

At websites exactly where synovium and articular cartilage are contiguous, rheumatoid arthritis synovial tissue (called pannus) invades and destroys adjacent cartilage and bone. Even though the causes of rheumatoid osteo-arthritis remain unclear, a number of essential components of pathogenesis are already identified.

As discussed previously, it is useful to separate the initiating and propagating phases from the illness and to recognize how the established rheumatoid osteo-arthritis phenotype reflects a self-sustaining and amplified inflammatory state. Concordance rates in twins differ in between 15% and 35%, implicating genetic factors in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.

The most striking of these genetic elements defined to date involves a specific subset of MHC class II alleles whose presence appears to predominantly figure out disease severity (sufferers homozygous for disease-associated alleles have the most severe illness). These MHC molecules function as antigen-presenting scaffolds, which present peptides to CD4 T tissue.

Disease-associated alleles (belonging to HLA-DR4/DR1 serotypes) share a sequence along their antigen-presenting groove, termed the "shared epitope." It may be postulated that these alleles present critical antigens towards the T tissue, which perform a part in initiating and driving progression of this illness. However, no specific antigens have however been identified.

Recent high-throughput genomewide genetic association studies have identified a number of new genetic chance factors for that development of RA. These genes (ie, PADI4, PTPN22, CTLA4, STAT4, and others) are included in generating and propagating inflammatory responses and possibly autoantibody production as well.

1. Environmental and infectious factors-Although several bacterial and viral pathogens have been investigated as possibly getting a role within the initiation of rheumatoid osteo-arthritis, scrutiny has failed to identify a part for any particular infectious cause. It is conceivable that any of several various infectious agents might be capable to induce non-pathogen-specific changes within the joint that are connected with illness initiation in susceptible people.

2. Autoimmunity-There is significant evidence supporting a part for autoimmunity in generating the rheumatoid osteo-arthritis phenotype, such as the presence of antigen-driven autoantibodies such as IgG rheumatoid elements and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies. Anti-CCP antibodies, in particular, are highly specific for RA and, as using the autoantibodies observed in SLE, can appear several many years prior towards the onset of disease.

They appear to be a marker of a a lot more destructive and intense RA phenotype, and their titers might be modulated by illness activity. The factors these citrullinated peptides are targeted in RA are unfamiliar, but possible explanations include an increase inside a member of the peptidyl arginine deiminase family of enzymes (PADI, the enzymes that mediate the conversion of arginine to citrulline) activity in synovial tissue or altered action of these enzymes as a result of genetic polymorphisms.

Cytokine elaboration in rheumatoid osteo-arthritis is markedly TH1 biased. Even though the cytokine profile in rheumatoid osteo-arthritis synovium is extremely complicated, with several pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines expressed simultaneously (eg, TNF, IL-1, IL-6, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating element [GM-CSF]), studies have persuasively demonstrated that TNF is an important upstream principle within the propagation of the rheumatoid arthritis inflammatory lesion (see later).

Thus, when pathways downstream of TNF are inhibited with soluble TNF receptors or monoclonal antibodies to TNF, a rapid and markedly beneficial impact on the inflammatory synovitis and overall state of well-being is noted in many patients. Interestingly, the outcomes of anti-TNF treatment had been restricted to the duration of treatment, and symptoms and signs of irritation returned rapidly on discontinuation of therapy. Recent data also implicate TH17 cells within the pathogenesis of RA.

Rheumatoid osteo-arthritis is most usually a persistent, progressive disease presenting in women in the middle many years of existence. Fatigue and joint irritation, characterized by pain, swelling, warmth, and morning stiffness, are hallmarks from the illness. Almost invariably, multiple little and large synovial joints are impacted on both the correct and left sides from the body in a symmetric distribution.

Involvement of the little joints of the hands, wrists, and feet as well as the bigger peripheral joints, including the hips, knees, shoulders, and elbows, is standard. Included joints are demineralized, and joint cartilage and juxtaarticular bone are eroded by the synovial inflammation, inducing joint deformities. Even though the lower spine is spared, cervical involvement can also occur, potentially leading to spinal instability. In highly active cases, extraarticular manifestations can occur.

These consist of lung nodules, subcutaneous "rheumatoid" nodules (typically present more than extensor surfaces), ocular irritation (such as scleritis), or small-vessel vasculitis. Prompt and aggressive treatment to control inflammation in rheumatoid osteo-arthritis can slow as well as stop progressive joint erosion. Numerous immunomodulatory medications have shown benefit in treating rheumatoid osteo-arthritis.

The primary pathway via which methotrexate-the drug most generally used as single-agent therapy for rheumatoid arthritis-acts to diminish joint irritation is still debated. One hypothesis suggests that methotrexate induces increased local release of adenosine, a short-acting anti-inflammatory mediator.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a single of the very first problems in which biologic modifiers of defined pathogenic pathways such as anti-TNF therapy have been used successfully to treat disease. Inhibitors of TNF (etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab) act by sequestering TNF, either to a recombinant soluble form of the TNF receptor (etanercept) or to monoclonal antibodies to TNF (infliximab, adalimumab).

Although these agents have a higher likelihood of achieving advantage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, their use is still restricted by their higher cost and also the potential risks of drug-associated toxicity (such as susceptibility to life-threatening infections and induction of other autoimmune syndromes).

Furthermore, although they're among one of the most potent brokers however described for the control of rheumatoid arthritis, there stay patients who fail to experience illness remission when treated only with TNF blockade. As a general principle of therapy in rheumatoid osteo-arthritis, it appears that using numerous brokers with (presumably) various and complementary mechanisms of action can lead to extra advantage.

T-cell-B-cell-APC interactions clearly perform important roles within the propagation phase of RA, and it is consequently not surprising that extra biological brokers have also proven efficacy in the treatment of RA, including agents that inhibit B cells (eg, rituximab) and costimulation (eg, CTLA4-Ig).

Is there a specific osteoarthritis diet? It seems these days there is a special diet for just about everything, but among the risk factors or causes of osteoarthritis are several dietary concerns, not the least of which is being overweight. Even as little as 10 pounds of extra weight can increase the burden on the joints, particularly the knees, hips and ankles.

Proponents of "low carb" diets, like Atkins and South Beach, claim that eating too many carbohydrates causes weight gain, rather than eating foods that are too high in fat. They also claim that people lose as much as 15 pounds in the first two weeks.

This might be true for someone who eats a lot of junk food, because no chips, cookies or sodas are allowed, but following a low carb diet for extended periods of time can cause deficiencies in some nutrients that are particularly important for the maintenance of healthy bones, joints and cartilage. In other words, a low-carb diet is not a good osteoarthritis diet.

Most sources list the causes of osteoarthritis as heredity, frequent or severe injuries to the joints, other diseases and aging. But, researchers are currently studying the role of nutrition.

The long accepted theory is that cartilage cushions between the joints deteriorate with age, but this deterioration may not be inevitable. Some people never suffer from arthritis. If it was part of the natural aging process, one would think that everyone over a certain age would have some degree of osteoarthritis, but that is not the case.

There are many nutrients that the body needs every day in order to rebuild cartilage. A good osteoarthritis diet should include all of the nutrients needed to rebuild and prevent the breakdown of cartilage.

The same nutrients are needed in other parts of the body to perform other functions. So, if dietary intake is inadequate, the body may "use up" all of the nutrients to perform vital functions. While the average American diet is high in saturated fat, salt and calories, it has low nutritional value. So, even though a person is overweight, he or she may be getting inadequate nutrition.

In addition, the average American diet contains an improper balance of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids. There are many sources of omega 6 fatty acids, but the only really good source of omega 3s is fish. Most people do not eat enough fish; in fact it is difficult to eat enough fish to reach the recommended 1000mg per day without supplementation. In an osteoarthritis diet, the recommendations are closer to 3000mg, which is practically impossible to get without supplementation.

The immune system uses fatty acids to create numerous compounds, some of which increase inflammation, while others inhibit inflammation. The compounds derived from omega 6 fatty acids are mostly inflammatory; while those derived from omega 3 fatty acids are mostly anti-inflammatory. Because of this, many nutritionists believe that one of the causes of osteoarthritis is an imbalance in the ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fats in the diet. Since, inflammation is the root cause of the pain.

Supplements that should be added to any osteoarthritis diet include the vitamins C and D, calcium and magnesium. Vitamin C is needed to form cartilage. Vitamin D, calcium and magnesium are important for healthy bones and the prevention of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis increases the risk of osteoarthritis.

Studies have shown that in persons with vitamin D deficiency the space between the joints is narrower, thus the joints grind together and cause pain. Doctors recommend 400IU daily for vitamin D supplementation. Other supplements, such as Glucosamine and chondroitin may also be beneficial.

An extract from the New Zealand green lipped mussel has been shown in studies to improve flexibility, reduce pain and morning stiffness in study participants. When taken with an omega 3 supplement, derived from fish oil, walking pace improved. The mussel contains glycosaminoglycans a component of connective tissue, such as cartilage. In addition to preventing inflammation, omega 3 fatty acids inhibit the production of an enzyme that breaks down cartilage.

for example, the University of Maryland's Medical Website states:

"...New Zealand green lipped mussel ( Perna canaliculus ), another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis."

Overall, the best osteoarthritis diet is one that includes fish 3-5 times per week, low fat dairy products, fruit, vegetables and whole grains, while limiting total fat intake to 30% or less of total caloric intake and avoiding saturated fats. In actuality, this diet would be good for anyone.

Exercise is the easiest way to treat disease and stay healthy overall. While more Americans are getting exercise in their spare time, one group that needs exercise is barely moving. Despite the known benefits of exercise for arthritis, patients still do not exercise. The lack of physical activity due to pain or a fear of worsening the symptoms might be the reason. Many people may not know where or how to begin. Exercising improves function in arthritis patients. Yet findings show that 53% of arthritis sufferers are less likely to exercise than others.

In the last several decades, the Americans who do not exercise has gone up considerably. Likewise, so has the percentage of obese people. This number has gone up 25% since 1999. Most people do not exercise even in their leisure time. In order to keep the rates of leisure time activities alive, we need more programs that are proven safe and affective for adults. When in doubt, walk. Walking at a moderate pace for at least twenty minutes collectively, in a given day is the best way to stay healthy and away from pain. Plus, it costs nothing. It can be fun. Go to a physical therapist for help if you want or need specific exercises for your condition..

Twenty-Seven million people suffer from arthritis in the United States alone. An estimated 50 million adults have arthritis throughout the world. Arthritis is a disease that causes joint pain and swelling. It occurs when the cartilage between the moving joints wears away. This causes the bones to grind together and cause pain, swelling and stiffness. Bone spurs, which are extra bones that form to correct the problem, can also be a problem. This can lead to pain and inflammation.

Although arthritis can affect any joint, the weight-bearing joints are more often affected. The most likely areas are the feet, knees, hips and spine. There is no single known cause. Many factors can lead to someone developing arthritis. Old age is the primary risk factor. Previous injury to a joint a contributor. Diabetes, being over weight, ligament damage and inflammatory diseases can cause a flare up.

As we get older, we all have aches and pains we never had before. Keep active, no matter how hard it seems. You will find your health will improve and your aches and pains will be less. Arthritis is not comfortable but you can help yourself by staying active. Exercise and especially dancing can really help.

It is disheartening to think that during the younger years you were healthy and could do almost anything under the sun, but when arthritis has taken over your life, you become fragile... and bedridden.

Arthritis is not only a distressing disease, but it can also be a debilitating one. In fact, a lot of people suffering from such a condition have become frail, weedy, bedridden, and depressed. Many of these sufferers are searching for arthritis cures, but a lot of them do not know what would be the best to use.

Simple Truth

It can affect anyone, especially those who failed to stay fit and healthy during their younger years. As a consequence, a lot of unwanted symptoms may be suffered, such as extreme joint pain and swelling and joint stiffness. It is not easy to go on with life if you have arthritis. It is very true that prevention is a must, and one way to do so is to shun away from a sedentary lifestyle. Doing exercise regularly is on top of the list, and avoidance of smoking, alcoholic drinks, and fatty foods are also among the prevention tips. But how about when a person already has the condition? Is there anything he or she can do about it?

Hope For The Victims

Although it can be difficult to eradicate and there is a lesser chance for those who already suffered it to totally treat it, there are still arthritis cures available that can help ease out the symptoms of this condition. For many years, different health experts from around the globe have researched some helpful ways and means on how to put a stop on arthritis pain and swelling. The results of their studies have pave way for the development of some products that victims of arthritis can use today to manage their condition. Some of these include:

ARTHRITIS DRUGS. These formulated drugs are powerful enough to combat arthritis from getting worst. These drugs are capable of providing the body with defense against the condition.

For instance, most of these contain ingredients that have shown to modify the hormonal influence on arthritis, especially on women, who are prone to develop rheumatoid arthritis. These can also help in regulating chemical interactions of food chemicals and joint fluids among men who are at higher risk of developing gout.

FOOD SUPPLEMENTS. These are different from drugs, because these are not made to combat the development of arthritis. But these food supplements help in boosting some responses of the body that could strengthen the joints' health. Food supplements are usually made from natural ingredients, such as medicinal herbs, and should be taken daily.

These two products have been noted by experts, as well as by the users, as helpful arthritis cures (or more so as symptom relievers). Although they do not provide total relief, their healing power is already enough to aid individuals in attaining their normal joint strength needed to perform their activities of daily living.

Many people (in fact probably most of them) tend to take arthritis as a generic condition and associate pain with it, failing to realize that there are actually many types of arthritis, and that this is not a single disease. But the fact is that, there are actually more than 100 types of arthritis, and when we consider the huge number of people who are affected with it, the disease becomes one of the most varied types of medical problems the world over.

Among the various types of arthritis there are a few common points (since they belong to the same family) and a few dissimilarities. For example, all types of arthritis affect the seniors, the exception being juvenile arthritis that affects younger people. There is a commonality among the various types of arthritis when it comes to the signs and symptoms as well - the most common symptoms of the disease are seen in the joints of the body and they include swelling and pain, and this is true among all the types.

The Most Common Types Of Arthritis

As mentioned earlier, there are in excess of 100 types of arthritis - but here are some of the most common types, that are seen more often than others...

Osteoarthritis: The most common type of arthritis that affects a large section of the population. Due to pressure for many years over the tissues and the bones, the cartilage wears and tears and this leads to its damage and as a result there is swelling and pain in the joints of the hip, back, knees, fingers, feet and even the spine. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is also hereditary in nature and can so pass from one generation to the next.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Also known as arthropathic psoriasis, this can happen to all those who suffer from the psoriasis skin disease. In whom it develops into arthritis, the patients usually had the skin disease in the nail that is characterized by lesions and even the nail might fall off in severe conditions. Psoriatic arthritis is relatively rare though. Early diagnosis can prevent arthritis.

Ankylosing Spondylitis: This type of arthritis affects the sacroiliac joints and the spine. Low back pain is the most common symptom of this disease.

Juvenile Arthritis: Affects mostly children. The symptoms of this type of arthritis are markedly different than the other types. Loss of appetite, almost a complete absence of physical activity and a general lethargy are the most common symptoms. It can also come with flu and a slight fever. If the child is limping, and that too without much of a pain, then it might be a case of juvenile arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is another common type of arthritis. This disease happens slowly over many years, but once it begins to affect a person, it stays for a long time as well. The body's own immune system becomes a foe and mistakenly attacks the joints thinking that there has been an outside attack and so there is pain in the knees, wrists and the hands. The tissues and the cartilages become damaged leading to the pain.

Reactive Arthritis: This type of arthritis happens after an infection - that is due to a reaction. The infections that cause this include genitourinary and intestinal ones.

Arthritis is often thought to be a disease of old people but it is not so. It can affect very young people as well. It is quite commonly considered to be a single disease but arthritis is a term given to a collection of over 100 medical conditions together affecting the musculoskeletal system and in particular the joints. The different forms of arthritis are capable of affecting not only the muscles and joints but the whole body, sometimes including organs like the kidneys, lungs, heart, etc. To date there are over 125 types of arthritis identified. The two most common types are Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis. The others are Ankylosing spondylitis, Gout, Juvenile arthritis, Fibromyalgia and Scleroderma just to name a few.

People who suffer from arthritis will generally experience inflammation of the joints with swelling, tenderness and soreness for more than two weeks and may also have muscle ache, tiredness, be unable to sleep and depressed and find it very painful when moving around, thus leading to disability in some instances.

It is not known what causes arthritis and still the cure for it is unknown. People who get arthritis will probably suffer with it for the rest of their lives, but there are various treatments such as oral medication, diet, exercise, weight control and even surgery that are available to make life easier and bearable. If you develop a pain especially in your joints, which lasts over a couple of weeks together with fever and swelling in your joints then you should consult your physician to see if you have developed arthritis. Based on x-rays and blood tests your physician should be able to tell if you have arthritis and how acute it is and prescribe which treatment is best suited to your condition. With age, joints degenerate naturally and for most people over the age of 50 some signs of the disease are evident.

Some common myths about arthritis.

Myth: Arthritis is a negligible health condition.

This is not true. Arthritis is the most widespread health condition in America leading to disability in most people, causing major setbacks in their lives, in terms of employment and also day to day living.

Myth: Arthritis is about aches and pains.

It is a common misconception that arthritis is the name given to the aches and pains of older people. Firstly, as mentioned earlier, it is not a disease of the old; even young children are able to get it. It however is more common among the elderly.

Myth: Nothing much can be done to lessen disability and pain

To date there are no known cures for arthritis, but in today's day and age with such advancement in science, there is much that can be done to lessen the disability and pain. Exercise programs, weight control programs and even surgery are some of the measures used today.

Some points to keep in mind about arthritis.

If you suffer from arthritis, you and your physician should work hand in hand in treating this disease. The patient's cooperation is essential to successful treatment.

It should always be kept in mind that the condition for a person suffering with arthritis can be improved.

As important as the x-rays and blood tests are, it is also very important that you furnish all your observations about your condition to your physician, which in turn will enable him to treat you better.

Each type of arthritis is unique. None is better or worse than the other.

Based on your kind of arthritis your physician will give you what he thinks is the best course of treatment. However, since each person may react or respond differently to different treatments there is no such thing as an ideal treatment for an individual.

The main concern in the treatment of arthritis is the relief of pain and improving joint mobility.

What is rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammation of multiple joints in the body with predilection for smaller joints in the hands. Rheumatoid arthritis causes signs and symptoms of inflammation in joints that include pain, swelling, redness, warmth and loss of function i.e. stiffness and limitation in the motion and function of multiple joints. Although joints are the main structure affected by this condition, it can cause inflammation in other body parts too for example, the eyes, lungs, heart, blood vessels and kidneys.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are typically worst in the morning with gradual easing of symptoms throughout the day. This chronic worsening of symptoms in the morning, especially of stiffness in the joints, are important diagnostic clues in differentiating other forms of arthritis for example osteoarthritis and gouty arthritis.

Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are non-specific, which may include loss of appetite, chronic fatigue, weight loss, hair loss, low grade fevers and so on.

What are the causes of rheumatoid arthritis and who is at risk? Rheumatoid arthritis is categorized as autoimmune disease, in which the body produces an immunogenic response to some constituent of its own tissue, in this case, the joints. In other words the immune system loses its ability to recognize some tissue or system within the body as "self" and targets and attacks it as if it were foreign.

4. Age: the age of onset is usually between third and fourth decades of life

How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed? Clinical suspicion is the first step towards confirmation of the diagnosis. Once rheumatoid arthritis is suspected, a series of laboratory and radiological tests are performed and these include full blood examination, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factors, autoimmune markers and x-rays. If these tests turn out positive, rheumatoid arthritis is very likely.

How is rheumatoid arthritis treated? Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can be categorized as non-medical and medical treatments.

1. Non-medical treatments: these include physiotherapy with hot wax, joint exercises and assistive devices. More often than not, conservative treatment alone is inadequate, therefore, addition of chemotherapeutic agents is warranted.

2. Medical treatment: since rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that mounts an inflammatory response towards self, the use of chemotherapeutic agents, which alter and dampen the immune response, is nonetheless, effective. These chemotherapeutic agents include steroids, methotrexate, sulfasalazine and plaquenil. Pain, that often is the dominant symptom in rheumatoid arthritis, can be managed by taking anti-inflammatory medications such as non-steroidals.

Does rheumatoid arthritis only affect joints? No. As a matter of fact, rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune, inflammatory disease that has a predilection for joints. It can affect skin, brain, heart, lungs and other bodily systems.

What is your advice for people who suffer rheumatoid arthritis? It is paramount that people who suffer rheumatoid arthritis should remain active. Seeking advice with a physical and occupational therapist may help to decide what level and types of activities are appropriate. It is important to discuss your progress with your physician and health care providers, who can provide you with appropriate information and resources you need during your treatment.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

With more than fifty million Americans live with one of the more than one hundred forms of arthritis asking yourself what holistic treatment can do for arthritis is a valid question. More than twenty million people suffer from such intense arthritis symptoms that they find themselves under the care of a physican. With a name that literally means an inflammation of the joints, the onset of arthritis typically stems from four causes including genetics, injury, infection, or just normal wear and tear. There's even a form of arthritis associated with presence of sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

Although arthritis is not just one single disease, many forms of the disorder work in cooperation with pain, inflammation, swelling, redness, limited motion, and catastrophic damage to the joints. Some of the most common forms of arthritis are:

Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of the disease in the United States.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Often plague on women over the age of forty, rheumatoid arthritis has the potential to cause a fiery sensation in the joints as well as other organs like the eyes, lungs, heart, and skin.

Gout Arthritis: Frequently occurring in men forty years old and older, gout arthritis is caused by elevated blood levels of uric acid that forms crystals in the joints.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and systemic infectious arthritis are other forms of the disease.

What Holistic Treatment Can Do For Arthritis?

Alternative treatments like massage therapy and ancient Chinese acupuncture have a lot of influence on alleviating the symptoms of arthritis. Over the years a number of complementary remedies have presented themselves in hopes of providing an answer for what holistic treatment can do for arthritis. Just take a look at what holistic treatment can do for arthritis pain relief:

Acupuncture: Each pain inflicted area of the body has a connected acupuncture pressure point. Daily acupuncture treatments can be helpful for acute arthritis. Chronic sufferers may require treatments just a few times a month.

Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy treatments can relieve pain by helping the body learn to heal itself. Aromatherapy includes oils like rosemary, lavender, ginger, juniper, chamomile, and eucalyptus. Therapy oils can be applied in numerous ways including mixing with bath water, wearing as a perfume, inhaling the vapors, or mixing the oils for a full body massage.

Bodywork: Bodywork is another holistic treatment for arthritis that is used to restore more natural posture. A rigorous course of body massage and movement reeducation, bodywork has displayed evidence of recapturing some of the physical limitations brought on by arthritis. Bodywork also features lots of compassionate massaging, which is complimented for providing a big boost to the self-confidence of arthritis patients.

Juice Therapy: It's no wonder Mom was always telling you finish all of your orange juice. For people with many forms of arthritis, lots of fruits juices that are rich in beta-carotene have demonstrated positive results of what holistic treatment can do for arthritis pain relief. Black cherry juice, in particular, is a solid choice for alleviating arthritis pain. Juices that promote positive results for arthritis are:

Carrot Juice

Potato Juice

Lemon Juice (just before bed)

Radish

Beet Juice

As you can see there are various forms of holistic treatments for arthritis that can provide those that suffer from arthritis symptoms and pain some much welcomed relief.

Psoriasis treatments are in great availability currently, considering the huge increase in the number of people who are affected by this chronic skin condition. If you have Psoriasis, then you should start seeking the most suitable treatment for you, as this may cause you to suffer from extreme discomfort. This skin condition is also unsightly. There are cases when you will get flaky patches due to the condition. There are also cases when Psoriasis causes blisters that may bleed in the long run. This may cause you to suffer from a constant burning feeling. The following are among the best Psoriasis treatments that can work perfectly for your case:

1. Hot Epsom or Dead Sea Salt. This is one of the most effective Psoriasis treatments as the minerals present in this salt are effective in reducing the remission of the skin condition. Using it in your bath can offer a good element of your skin. Make sure that you mix the salt with lukewarm water and bathe using it. Hot Epsom or Dead Sea salt is among those Psoriasis treatments that can soothe the irritation in your skin. Just make sure that you apply lotion in your skin after bathing with it to avoid extreme dryness.

2. Acupuncture. This is one of those Psoriasis treatments that can be used together with herbal treatments. This is a perfect solution for you if you are suffering from psoriatic arthritis as acupuncture is a major help in alleviating the joint pain which can be linked to this condition.

3. Herbal Psoriasis Treatments. A lot of Psoriasis sufferers rely on the effectiveness of some herbs when it comes to treating their condition. The good thing about these herbs is that they are not only capable of treating the symptoms but also in effectively dealing with the major causes of it. Among the most effective herbal Psoriasis treatments are witch hazel, Aloe Vera and milk thistle extract. But make sure that you talk to your doctor before using any of the herbs to guarantee your safety. Bear in mind that there are herbs that can trigger allergies and liver damage so you have to be extremely careful.

4. Naturopathy. This is considered to be one of the most effective Psoriasis treatments. All that you need to do is to strictly follow a good nutrition plan and a healthy lifestyle in order to get rid of the toxins that are causing you to suffer from the skin disease. It is advisable for you to change your daily eating habits by reducing or fully eliminating your consumption of caffeine, sugar and alcohol. You are also advised to consume more water, use good supplements, exercise regularly, quit smoking and relieve yourself from stress by using any of the most effective relaxation techniques.

Arthritis is a very common disease among people of all ages across the globe. There are more medicines for relieving the pain of arthritis but few really treat the problem. This leads to a greater dependency of patients with this disease on medicines and less on self help.

Arthritis can come in many forms and it is important to know which one is afflicting you. The common forms of arthritis are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Some people also suffer from gout which comes from a build up of uric acid in the body and results in painful joints. All arthritis will attack the joins and cause painful inflammation.

One of the ways that certain forms of arthritis can be controlled is by diet. Much has been written about eating a healthy diet and improving your overall health. For example:

1. Obesity can add to your arthritis problems. If you are overweight there is more stress and strain on your joints, especially your knees, ankles and hips. It is wise to eat a healthy diet that will help you maintain your correct weight and decrease stress on these joints.

2. Some foods contribute to inflammatory conditions. Some foods should not be eaten by arthritis sufferers. Saturated and transfat should be eliminated as much as possible, especially transfat. Fried foods are not very good for arthritis patients as they tend to be full of calories and will make you put on weight, which can put stress on your joints. Refined foods like those made with white flour and white rice can increase the inflammatory chemicals in your body. Sugar will also have the same effect.

3. Other foods can reduce inflammation.

Green tea has been praised of late for its beneficent properties regarding health. It contains among other things a substance called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGEC) This is an antitoxin that acts as an anti inflammatory substance by reducing inflammatory chemicals within the body. Research has also discovered that this tea might decrease cartilage break down and improve the preservation of the joints.

Omega 3 fats: this substance can decrease inflammation in the joints by suppressing the enzymes that erode cartilage. It can be found in Salmon, oily fish like sardines, trout and mackerel or in walnuts and flax seeds.

Olive oil is a healthy addition to your diet. Oleocanthal can be found in Olive oil, which acts like aspirin and is anti inflammatory. Extra virgin oil is best as it is less processed than the other types of olive oil and also has some antitoxins to fight inflammation.

Beta cryptoxanthin can be found in a number of fruits and vegetables. This will reduce inflammation. Winter squash, persimmons, corn, pumpkin, tangerines, oranges, papaya, red peppers, and apricots are high in this ingredient.

Vitamin C is known for its uses in helping the body make collagen, which is useful for maintaining cartilage. Many fruits and vegetables have this vitamin. It is not good to have high doses of vitamin C supplements if you have osteoarthritis.

Ginger and turmeric are good spices for people suffering with arthritis to use. Anthocyanins are good antioxidants that will reduce free radicals and can be fond in berries, eggplant, red and black grapes and plums.

The best diet to help your arthritis is a healthy, well balanced one that keeps these tips in mind.

For the estimated 20 million sufferers of arthritis in the United States, pain is a constant and dependable companion. Sufferers of this disease - which comes in many forms and does not discriminate - search, often without much success, for relief.

For many, the first step taken when the pain becomes noticeable is a trip to the local mega-mart or corner pharmacy for an over-the-counter painkiller such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin. The receipts add up as more and more medication is purchased, and the pain increases regardless of the medication.

At this point, some will take their search for relief to their physician. X-rays, blood tests and physical examinations may result in a diagnosis of osteoarthritis - the most common form of arthritis - and a prescription for a still-stronger pain relieving medication, such as Daypro, Naprosyn or Celebrex and a few stretching exercises. The prescription medication may work for a time... or not at all... and the patient may experience side effects. Frustration with the exercises and a lack of fast results often leads to discouragement.

Still others prefer to avoid the dangerous side effects of these prescription medications and resort to other, more natural ways of relieving pain. Weight loss, herbal pain remedies and physical therapy are just a few of the many "natural" routes those who suffer from osteoarthritis may take. Many will simply limit their activity - cutting back on the things they love - in order to have some semblance of relief.

At first blush, these treatments may seem completely different. However, all of these treatments - over-the-counter, prescription and otherwise - have one thing in common.

They only treat the symptoms.

Getting to the heart of the matter - the cause of the pain - is the most effective way to manage osteoarthritis. But first, what is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of degenerative joint disease in the world. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is not believed to be genetic and affects both young and old, athletes and couch potatoes alike. A simple twisted ankle can set the stage for a lifetime of debilitating pain.

So what causes the pain? Simply stated - inflammation. When the cartilage - the "padding" - between bones begins to break down faster than it can be repaired, inflammation occurs and causes pain. Complicating matters, continued use of the joint only serves to worsen the situation. And because osteoarthritis typically affects the oft-used weight-bearing joints of the hips, legs and ankles, limiting movement can be very difficult and, for many, an impossible prospect.

So, rather than limiting activity and movement of the affected joints, sufferers seek relief from one of the treatments previously mentioned, hoping at the very least to lessen their pain and get on with their lives. Although it may seem like a lost cause, there is hope for those who suffer from osteoarthritis. In fact, one treatment not only relieves pain, it gets to the root of the problem by working to rebuild damaged cartilage in the arthritic joints.

Supplementation with natural glucosamine and chondroitin has been shown to not only relieve the pain of osteoarthritis, but also to stop - and in some cases, reverse - the effects of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements give joints the raw materials necessary to rebuild cartilage.

Evidence collected from randomly done studies seem to support using glucosamine for treating osteo-arthritis. It's thought that glucosamine helps in the protection, regeneration, and strengthening of the joint cartilage.

Liquid glucosamine is often used to treat arthritis with only very minor rare complications. In many cases, glucosamine can be used to effectively treat joint issues and then prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) are not needed.

NSAIDS tend to be effective and fast acting but should be avoided if possible due to the many serious side effects, such as: shortness of breath, retaining fluid, liver disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, and dizziness.

With age, the normal natural production of glucosamine in the body declines. However, a steady supply of glucosamine is still necessary for the body to keep joints and cartilage flexible as well as pain/injury free.

Glucosamine supplements have been tested in animals and people. Studies found effectiveness and safety for glucosamine for treating the following conditions. One should always ask a doctor for specific information about personal circumstances.

General Osteoarthritis

- Animal and people studies report benefits of liquid glucosamine for treating osteoarthritis for many joints in the body. Evidence shows glucosamine is particularly beneficial for knee pain. Benefits included better joint functionality and also as relief of pain.

Knee Rehabilitation after injury

- Glucosamine improved the flexibility of athletes with acute injuries in the knee; however, the amount of pain relief was not helped. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Liquid glucosamine is more readily absorbed by the body and therefore is the preferred method of consummation. The liquid formulas are also easier to administer to animals and people who dislike taking multiple pills. 1500 mg is the recommended daily dose. Specific dose is dependent on individual weight.

Warning, Side Effects, and Allergies

Glucosamine is made using the shells of crab, shrimp, as well as other kinds of shell fish.

Although glucosamine is considered a safe and effective supplement, consult a medical professional before taking glucosamine supplements if any of these conditions are present: An allergy to shell fish, sensitivity to iodine, pregnant or breast feeding, asthma problems, those under the age of eighteen.

Side effects are rare but may include:

Stomach upset, Headache, Diarrhea Constipation, Rash

Liquid glucosamine relieves joint pain faster than pill or powder forms. How fast the pain is improved depends on the consistency of the dose and the overall health of the patient.

Many dogs and cats have relief in just a matter of days to a several weeks. People usually tend to take a bit longer...a few weeks to several months. Remember the glucosamine is not just masking the pain, but it's working to repair the joint damage.

That's a critical difference between slower-acting and less side-effects glucosamine compared to the faster-acting more serious side-effects NSAIDS. Always ALWAYS check out the side effects of supplements and medications before taking them yourself or giving any to your family or pets!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Gout is a very painful type of arthritis that usually forms around the big toes of middle aged men but can also appear around other joins of the body and can actually affect women in the same way. In this article we are going to talk about the main food types that affect gout flare up and tell you why you should always avoid these foods.

Red MeatRed meat is probably the biggest culprit when it comes to gout attacks. If you are looking to stay gout free or if you are simply looking to cure gout then you need to keep red meat out of your diet. The reason for this is that red meant contains a lot of purine which is then converted into uric acid in the body when then, in turn, causes gout. Chicken is a better alternative if you must eat meat but tofu would be even better than that.

SeafoodEating seafood also will have you limping with painful gout symptoms if you are prone to gout. Seafood, as with red meat, contains high levels of purine which will then convert to uric acid. Avoid all forms of seafood if you want to conquer gout.

YeastYeast is in a lot of foods that we eat or drink. Foods such as bread and alcoholic beer should be avoided due to their high yeast count. Yeast contains high levels of purine as well as red meat and seafood.

As a stark contrast to what has been said about red meat and seafood, dairy produce such as skimmed milk and cheese will actually help you to fight gout. The important thing to remember with dairy is that it can be very fattening and if you put on weight you will be more prone to gout. Moderation is the key with dairy produce.

Yet another excellent way to combat gout is to take 1,500mg - 2,000mg of vitamin C daily. High levels of this powerful antioxidant supplement have been proven to reduce uric acid levels in the body and can aid you great in getting rid of your pain. In a 2009 study people who were commonly effected by gout were given 2 different doses of vitamin C on a daily basis. The group taking in excess of 1.5g of vitamin C daily had a 40% less chance of attracting gout while the group taking the smaller doses of vitamin C got gout attacks for the most part.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of inflammatory disease. Generally, it causes intense pain and loss of motion in the particular joint it chooses to attack. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system plays a big part in the development of the disease. When a certain type of reaction triggers a rheumatoid arthritis attack, the result would be unbearable pain in and around the joints.

The Function Of Joints

A joint is the intersection of two human bones. The ends of these bones are covered with a smooth and durable substance called the cartilage. It is the cartilage that allows the bones to slide along each other without much friction. A cartilage is what functions as the device that cushions and absorbs the forces created during bone movements.

When a person suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, then a certain autoimmune defect would trigger an attack toward the healthy cells. And during such process, an enzyme is released to strike tissues. And the most common types of tissues attacked are the joints. Once this happens, the joints swell and become very painful.

Chronic

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease. Being such it would continue indefinitely and does not go away easily. And more often than not, flare-ups may even occur. It is also possible that rheumatoid arthritis affects all other organs present in the body. This makes it very critical for the disease to be diagnosed and treated in its early stages.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause total disability. Even if this doesn't happen instantly, the mere fact that a patient may eventually lose his or her mobile functions should be enough to cause concern whenever the symptoms of this disease show.

The Most Commonly Affected Joints

The most common sign of rheumatoid arthritis would be swollen, tender, and stiff joints. The human body has a lot of joints. But the most common parts that rheumatoid arthritis hits are the hands, arms, leg, shoulders, and neck. Any pain that comes and goes felt around this area should be suitably consulted with a health expert.

People with rheumatoid arthritis also feel tired easily. A few minutes of physical exercise will cause them to catch their breath and require them to immediately rest their bodies. And sooner or later, even the simplest activity such as exercising, working, and doing their hobbies becomes rather difficult. People with rheumatoid arthritis prefer not to become physically active over time.

Most Susceptible Age Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is very common in people aged 20 to 45 years of age, although this disease could occur to a person regardless of his age. People who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis can't do what a normal person does in terms of physical endeavors such as walking, running, swimming, and exercising. And because of this, the family and friends of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis becomes affected as well.

The diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis should be done by a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist is a type of doctor that specializes in arthritis and all other diseases of the muscles, bones, and joints. But more often than not, they are not the only people who can help patients when it comes to treatment and prevention of the disease. Nurses, physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, occupations therapists, psychologists, and even social workers are able to help as well.

Diagnostic Methods

The difficulty in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis in its early stages would be the fact that there is not a single test for this type of disease. The fact that its symptom may also differ from one patient to another is one more reason why it becomes hard for doctors to assume that the disease a patient suffers from is in fact, rheumatoid arthritis. The mere diagnosis of this disease requires a series of tests in the form or x-rays, blood tests, CRP, and SED rate.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease. It is but important that the moment it is accurately diagnosed, the proper treatment procedures be carried out immediately. Doing so would counteract its harmful effects on the body.

Studies concerning vitamins and arthritis suffering, positive results have been seen. Vitamins are not the only beneficial nutrients. Minerals and amino acids, as well as unique compounds such as glucosamine and SAM-e have been evaluated for their pain-relieving benefits.

2 Important Steps

Step One, of course, is to insure that you are getting all of the essential nutrients on a daily basis. That is difficult to do, without a good supplement. The value of the popular multi-vitamins is questionable, though, because they contain synthetics and the cheapest forms of the available nutrients. So, always shop for all-natural supplements. Plastic nutrients probably don't have much of an effect.

The Second Step for someone that has sore knuckles, general stiffness or a small amount of inflammation is omega-3 fish oil. Fish oil has been used for hundreds of years to relieve the pain associated with osteoarthritis. Modern day studies have shown that it is beneficial for the rheumatoid type, too.

Scientific comparisons have shown that some fish oils have more anti-inflammatory activity than others. So, look for a supplement company that has had their fish oil tested for its inflammation fighting ability.

Mussel Power

Once you have the basics of a multi-nutritional formula and a good fish oil supplement, you might consider green lipped mussel powder, which is another natural anti-inflammatory. The mussels contain a variety of nutrients important to joint and bone health.

Some of the studies concerning vitamins and arthritis suffering in the knee joints have looked at the value of natural vitamin E and glucosamine sulfate. Although glucosamine has been recommended for years as a dietary supplement for rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, researchers are still debating the effectiveness of the treatments.

This and other studies have confirmed that it is the type of glucosamine used in the studies that accounts for the varied results. Glucosamine sulfate is far more effective than glucosamine hydrochloride. But, since both have a beneficial effect, some of the better manufacturers include both types in their supplements.

Vitamin Research Result

Studies concerning specific vitamins and arthritis suffering indicate that A, C, D and E may be beneficial, because they reduce the oxidative damage done by free radicals, and also because the body's natural antioxidant status decreases with age. In the study mentioned above, researchers concluded that 400mg of natural vitamin E (derived from palm oil) per day was just as effective as glucosamine sulfate.

To date, there have been no studies comparing the effectiveness of other nutrients, such as SAM-e and chondroitin. So, when it comes to vitamins and arthritis suffering, it is safe to say that a combination of ingredients (rather than a single vitamin like E) is the best choice.

3 Factors to Seriously Consider

If combined with a -1. Healthy diet,2. Regular physical activity and3. Good dietary supplements can help repair damaged joints and reduce pain, while the healing process is ongoing. Some consumers say that the supplements are beneficial, even if they don't focus on what they eat or manage to get enough exercise.

If you decide that supplementation is the right choice for you, look for a brand that includes a number of natural anti-inflammatories, including turmeric, piperine and ginger. In studies concerning herbs, vitamins and arthritis suffering, those three spice extracts have proven to be most effective.

And now please visit the HealthyBodySupplements website listed below for more important information on Vitamins and Arthritis Suffering.

Arthritis is a medical term that comes from a Greek word, meaning joint inflammation. Arthritis is in all probability one of the most misunderstood of all diseases as it is an umbrella name for a group of more than 100 diseases that cause pain, stiffness and (often) inflammation in one or more joints. Time after time, arthritis is a long lasting disease, that can manifest itself in different joints in the body, especially in the knees, hips, and spine affecting people over many years.

Arthritis is the largest cause of disability in people over the age of 65 but if you imagine that arthritis is something that only affects older individuals, think again. Though arthritis is mainly a disease of adults, children may also suffer with it. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is arthritis that causes joint inflammation and stiffness for longer than 6 weeks in a child of 16 years of age or under.

Arthritis isn't a life sentence, but it can be very life changing and is far more widespread than imagined. It is a very common medical condition, estimated to affect around seven million people in the United Kingdom alone and is the biggest cause of chronic disability in the United States.

Rheumatoid arthritis is among the most debilitating of all forms of arthritis, causing joints to ache and throb and in due time become deformed and is found more commonly in women than in men. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from general wear and tear on your joints over time, rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition. Rheumatoid arthritis is marked by being tender to touch with warm, swollen and stiff joints. The exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis is not known but is a disease that primarily affects the linings of the joints.

Obtaining information and treatment for arthritis is a major key in finding relief from it. Sufferers of osteoarthritis very often feel their condition is worse at night or following rest but rheumatoid arthritis is generally speaking worse in the morning. There are abundant old folk remedies for arthritis which even includes drinking raw potato juice!

My arthritis started at a fairly early age and I've had it for 14 years as of writing. At first it was little more than an annoyance but it has gradually gotten worse to the point where it has become a real disability. It affects my hands, wrists, shoulders and more recently my elbows.

One thing I have learnt from speaking to many other arthritis sufferers is that the condition affects everybody differently. That is, the experience is usually changing and VERY personal though many comparisons can be drawn between them. It is also true of the various remedies available. My Mother swore by cod liver oil and rubbing her affected areas with peppermint oil. I find I get best relief from wrist supports and strapping. Everybody has their favourite remedy and what works for them won't necessarily work for you.

According to the U.S. Government survey on arthritis statistics, one out of every four adults in America will have arthritis by 2030. Right now there are 46 million people that suffer from the disease and because our population is constantly aging, this is why there will be 67 million affected twenty one years from now.These are quite shocking statistics but it goes further...

According to the Arthritis Foundation in 2007:

2/3rd of people who have been diagnosed with the disease are under 65.As long ago as 2003 9,500 Americans DIED because of arthritis.People with rheumatoid arthritis (also referred to as rheumatism) die up to 10 years earlier than those who do not have the disease.Almost 19 million Americans have to stop working within 10 years of being diagnosed.A shocking 294,000 children have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis.The cost of all this is $128 billion per year.

So what can we do if we are diagnosed with arthritis?

I think first of all, don't panic. Although arthritis cannot be cured at this time, there are many, many ways to alleviate pain and muscle swelling. You doctor can advise you which medication is best for you. Unfortunately almost all drugs have side effect, especially if they are used consistently over a long period of time. In fact, many doctors then prescribe another drug to help with the side effects of the arthritis drugs. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, known as NSAIDs are most commonly prescribed.

However, there are also many natural remedies that can help and in fact many people turn to these. Glucosamine and MSN supplements are readily available and help to rebuild the worn-down cartilage. Remedies like honey and apple cider vinegar help with pain relief. A visit to your local health food store can be quite an eye opener as to what products there are for this condition.

Diet is also a consideration as many foods tend to trigger arthritis pain, such as tomatoes. Acid forming drinks like coffee and sodas should be avoided. You can find out more by doing research online.If you are overweight, this can cause extra complications as the extra weight can negatively affect your joints and bodily movement in general. If you lose pounds, you help alleviate arthritis pain as well as the condition generally. This is even more important as exercise can be daunting when you have arthritis because it's hard to do as your joints are compromised. Therefore walking, climbing stairs, stooping or bending are often difficult.

In fact, arthritis is the number one cause of disability, so it's important to do what you can to help move those joints in a gentle way.

Although these arthritis statistics are horrifying, the truth is that much can be done to help people who have been diagnosed with the disease.

Arthritis of the joints can be very painful and difficult to live with. There are no cures, but you can help ease the pain with some easy remedies. A few lifestyle changes can help tremendously with the arthritic pain.

One in six Americans has some type of arthritis. Women have a greater chance of developing arthritis than men. Once a person reaches the age of forty they are much more likely to develop the condition. Consuming essential fatty acids can greatly help the joints in their recovery from strenuous activity and reduce inflammation.

Many foods can be eaten to help with arthritic pain and joint inflammation. Fish should be eaten two to three times a week. This will supplement your diet with enough omega three fatty acids while avoiding dangerous mercury levels. If you do not like fish or cannot eat it, cod liver oil may be what you need. This supplement is packed with vitamin A, and vitamin D as well as a hefty portion of omega three fatty acids. Green and yellow vegetables can be eaten to provide antioxidants that work with vitamin C to produce an anti-inflammatory response in the joints. These green and yellow plants are a great source of beta carotene. At least two servings of these types of vegetables should be eaten every day. Grapefruits are an excellent source of antioxidants. Zinc can be found in peas, legumes, milk, and whole grain products. It is recommended that arthritic patients control their weight as the extra pounds will increase the pressure applied to the joints. A diet filled with these foods will be healthy for you anyway, and will definitely help keep any extra weight off.

Try avoiding high levels of omega six fatty acids in your diet as these lead to worsened arthritis symptoms. Some foods that contain these and should be avoided are vegetable oils, any fried food, salad dressings, black or green olives, and canola oil.

Exercise can be a great way to loosen up stiff joints. Water work outs are particularly beneficial for those with arthritis. Exercising in the water provides for muscle strength and complete joint freedom without undue stress. It will increase heart rate considerably and increase range of mobility. Walking is another great form of exercise as it is also very gentle on joints and will also increase heart rate. An hour in the water is almost equivalent to walking for hours on dry land. In a study done on 106 people, everyone that spent an hour in the water for at least two days a week found their arthritis symptoms decreased over the course of a year. The body responds the same way to walking and other gentle exercises. Yoga is another excellent activity. This is splendid for increasing range of motion and flexibility. It improves circulation throughout all the joints and can even improve the way the body uses pain medication.

Message therapy is a very enjoyable experience for most people. Those with arthritis have an excellent excuse for going to get a full body massage because it also increases blood flow and decreases inflammation. The addition of aromatherapy lotion and a few select herbs can be an added perk to the message. Juniper has been found to abate swelling and sandalwood augments blood flow.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

There are many different causes of hip pain. And among the various problems requiring arthritis treatment, this ranks near the top.

This article will discuss the three most common types.

Osteoarthritis... the major culprit

The first is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a disease of cartilage, the gristle that caps the ends of long bones, and which cushions joints to allow gliding. When cartilage wears away, in other words, deteriorates, it causes the bones in the hip to rub against each other.

The pain of osteoarthritis is generally felt in the groin. It also may be felt in the buttocks. Patients may have difficulty getting their shoes and socks on and off the affected foot. Getting in and out of a chair may be difficult. Going up and down stairs may also be a problem.

On examination range of motion of the hip is abnormal. In particular, internal rotation tends to be affected early.

If osteoarthritis of the hip is suspected, the doctor will often order x-rays. The x-rays will show narrowing of the joint space as well as bone spurs and cysts in the bones next to the joint.

The treatment will vary depending on the extent of symptoms. Patients may respond to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, intra-articular steroid injections, and stretching exercises.

While patients may eventually require total joint replacement, if the arthritis is not that severe, a stem cell procedure may be considered.

Hip tendonitis... a major player

Another cause of hip pain is tendinitis. Tendinitis causes inflammation in the tough fibrous band that connects bones to muscles. The most common cause of tendinitis is overuse.

There are many different tendons in the hip region. The tendons in the front of the hip, if affected, will cause pain in the groin. This is particularly evident when a patient climbs stairs or gets up from the chair.

Tendinitis on the outside of the hip will cause pain with stair climbing. Also, the patient may experience discomfort at night if they try to lie on the affected hip.

Tendinitis involving the hamstring tendons in the hip may cause pain in the buttocks with walking or running.

The diagnosis is suspected by history and confirmed by physical examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be needed to confirm the extent of damage.

The treatment of choice is rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy, early on. Sometimes, steroid injections are required for acute problems.

For more chronic tendon problems, a percutaneous needle tenotomy using ultrasound guidance followed by platelet rich plasma (PRP) is generally advised. Surgery is rarely required.

Last... but not least

The final common problem that may affect the hip is bursitis. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, the small sacks of fluid that cushion bones and tendons.

The pain is felt along the outside of the hip. It is extremely painful when examined.

The following article covers a topic that has recently moved to center stage at least it seems that way. If you have been thinking you need to know more about it, here is your opportunity.

Who has rheumatism, knows very well where the problem is. Among the more than one hundred types catalogued by the type of medical illness, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and can result in physical disability and premature death.

With the increase in life expectancy in the world (people are living more), although the disease is not exclusive to the elderly. Scientists and medical laboratories intensified their searches to try to alleviate the intense pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, AR , and to ensure the improvement of the quality of life of patients.

During the past Congress of Rheumatology around world, were discussed some promising advances that facilitate early diagnosis of RA and new drugs that point to a possible interruption of progression of the disease.

The rheumatoid arthritis is a disease characterized by frequent inflammation of the joints. This reaction is caused by increased production of a liquid, called sinoval in joints, particularly in the hand fingers, toes, the wrists, shoulders and elbows.

"If you feel joint pain for more than six weeks, accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness and heat in the joints, there is a possibility of having rheumatoid arthritis," warns the rheumatologists.

The experts warns that if the problem is not treated in time and with due care can lead to the destruction of joints. "The rheumatoid arthritis is incapacitating. Therefore, prevention is the best weapon to the individual does not lose the mobility of the joints and its productive capacity," notes the rheumatologists.

Arthritis is a broad term for a group of joint disorders. Each of our joints is surrounded by a cartilage, a tissue protective lubricant that helps the motion and serves as the bone of the damper. Arthritis is characterized by damage to the cartilage causing joint pain when moving. Symptoms of arthritis can vary greatly since there are over 100 different types of this disease but there are general symptoms of arthritis that can help detect it.

Persistent pain in the set is one of the most common symptoms of arthritis. In addition to live constant joint pain, another sign that you can be when the arthritic pain in your joints together or worsen when you move or perform certain activities as simple as walking or standing, from its headquarters in writing, or shooting.

Swelling and stiffness in his joints accompanied by redness and heat are also symptoms of arthritis. These conditions indicate joint inflammation. Also, you may have arthritis is a whole lost its flexibility and range of motion.

There's a lot to understand about arthritis. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.

Functional strength training for the lower extremity can ease the pain of osteoarthritis and in some case work to slow the onset of it. When in pain, most people would shy away from exercise but new and different ways to stimulate the body is what could alleviate the ache of joint pain. The scientific research is becoming more supportive of functional strength training for the lower extremity in lessening the effects of osteoarthritis.

What the research says

According to the journal Arthritis Care & Research, throughout a thirty month period, patients suffering from osteoarthritis kept more strength and less joint pain by doing functional strength training for the lower extremity rather than other types of exercises. In the conducted study, the patients' exercise regimen consisted of workouts twice weekly at a gym and once at home. If a person suffering from osteoarthritis could see benefits of functional strength training for the lower extremity, then there could be no limit to the positive effects a generally healthy person might experience.

A routine you can use

One basic functional strength training for the lower extremity includes:

Lunges with/without dumbbells

Squats with/without dumbbells

Calf raises with/without dumbbells

They also emphasize good stretching habits to keep the joints from being stiff. But stretching and functional strength training for the lower extremity is not the only thing a person can do to prevent the onset of osteoarthritis or ease the pain resulting from it.

Not just a crack in the back

Because of its preventative as well as rehabilitative effects, people should consider chiropractic care just as vital as he regards proper nutrition and exercise. People should take a new look at their local chiropractic doctors because chiropractic offices now manage a patient's overall healthcare as well as joint care.

Another way that can help your lower body strength is to have physicians monitor a patient's diet and advise better nutrition. Extra weight on a person can bring with it osteoarthritis because of the stress on the bone and joints. Easing joint and back pain is something a chiropractor can do easily. Functional strength training for the lower extremity combined with a stretching routine and a good chiropractor can stop osteoarthritis before it starts.

Arthritis affects more than 40 million Americans and is referred to as the

most common chronic disease in people over 40. Doctors believe there are over 100 different forms of arthritis, all sharing

one main characteristic: they all cause joint inflammation. What can you do to relieve the symptoms of arthritis? A lot. There is a great deal of debate in the medical world about the effects of overall

diet on arthritis and using diet toward alleviating the condition. Doctors have known for a long time that diet affects gout, a specific type

of arthritic condition, however the jury remained out for a long time on other

common types of arthritis such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. What is known however, is that overall dietary health is important and does

come into play. Weight and nutrition are two factors that play a role in arthritic